Qatar Reinsurance Company has been authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority to carry out certain regulated activities in the UK from its branch office in London. Michael van der Straaten will lead the branch, in addition to his current role as the company’s Chief Underwriting Officer for Long Tail and Specialty Classes.

Gunther Saacke, Qatar Re’s CEO, commented: “We are very pleased with Qatar Re’s authorisation in the UK. London is the leading global hub for specialty and wholesale insurance. Therefore, a local underwriting presence is almost imperative for any aspiring global reinsurer. This is particularly true for Qatar Re as proximity to our clients and brokers is one of our proven value drivers.”

Gunther Saacke continued: “For Qatar Re, Britain is a major market of growing importance. Only a few days ago, we announced the acquisition, subject to regulatory approvals, of Markerstudy Group’s Gibraltar-based insurance companies which underwrite more than 5% of the UK motor insurance market, generating annual premiums of about £ 750 million.”

Michael van der Straaten, Head of Qatar Re’s UK branch and Chief Underwriting Officer, Long Tail and Specialty Classes, said: “I am excited about my additional role as London branch head. Our local presence allows us to further enhance our access and offering to our UK clients and brokers. Qatar Re is looking forward to becoming an important member of the UK insurance community.”

Qatar Re, licensed as a Class 4 Insurer by the Bermuda Monetary Authority, is a global multi-line reinsurer writing all major property, casualty and specialty lines of business